Prescribed burn planned for Lytton area



LYTTON – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting Lytton First Nation in conducting a prescribed burn covering up to 39 hectares. The burn is located on Ngwyu’uyemc 36 Indian Reserve in the Botanie Valley, approximately eight kilometres north of Lytton.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • Community wildfire risk reduction
  • Increased productivity of traditional foods
  • Critical cross training opportunities between staff of Lytton First Nation and BC Wildfire Service

Smoke may be visible from Lytton, to residents within the Botanie Valley and surrounding areas and to motorists traveling along Highway 1 and 12 corridors.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Monday, March 16. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with a range of partners to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of controlled burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities. These projects are carefully planned and only go ahead at the right times and under the right conditions to ensure community and practitioner safety. 

Visit the BC Wildfire Service Cultural and Prescribed Fire webpage and Prescribedfire.ca for more information.

Exposure to smoke can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:

  • Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly
  • Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities
  • Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms

Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 tollfree or *5555 on a cell phone or through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

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Contact:

Tawnya Durant
Emergency Program Coordinator
Lytton First Nation
778-254-0234
Tawnya.Durant@lfn.band

BC Wildfire Service
Fire Information Officer
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca

Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect.